Rwanda

Wedged between four other countries in Central Africa, Rwanda is one of Africa’s smallest nations by area, but also one of its most alluring destinations. With an average elevation of 1600 metres, much of the country is covered by mountains, dotted by numerous scenic lakes, although the eastern region is covered by typical African savannah.

The highest mountains in Rwanda (including the 4507 metre high Mount Karisimbi) can be found in the Virunga Mountains in the northwest. Here, the montane forests of the Volcanoes National Park are home to some of the few remaining troops of the world’s estimated 700 wild mountain gorillas.

In the south west, the Nyungwe Forest National Park is a little-known biodiversity hotspot with 25% of Africa’s primate species (including chimpanzees and golden monkeys), 38 reptile species and over 1000 species of plants – many of them endemic to the region.

Must-Sees

Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll spend time within touching distance of relaxed gorilla troops. Viewing of other primates, the grave of legendary conservationist Dian Fossey and the Musanze Caves.

Nyungwe Forest, with its seclusion, lush beauty and incredible biodiversity.

Kigali, the capital, where a visit to the genocide museum serves as a sobering reminder of what can happen when politics goes wrong.